Finding the perfect dog toy can feel like a challenge. You may have spent money on plush toys that last mere minutes or bought expensive gadgets your pup ignores. But the right toy isn’t just about fun—it’s a crucial tool for enrichment, training, and mental stimulation.

At Shelby Semel Dog Training, we prioritize positive reinforcement and mental engagement for dogs. That’s why we’re resharing this fantastic article, originally written by CNN Underscored’s Kai Burkhardt, because so many of our trainers were quoted in it. Their insights help highlight the best dog toys for various play styles and training goals.

Read the original article on CNN Underscored.

How to Choose the Right Dog Toy

Before picking a toy, it’s important to understand your dog’s play style. As Shelby Semel,, explains: “Dog toys are more than just entertainment—they’re tools that help your pup burn energy, stay mentally sharp, and feel fulfilled.” Some dogs love a good game of fetch, while others prefer a puzzle challenge. Here are the key toy categories and what they offer:

Chew Toys – Great for teething puppies and aggressive chewers. Look for durable, non-toxic materials.
Fetch Toys – Perfect for high-energy dogs that love chasing balls and frisbees.
Puzzle Toys – Provide mental stimulation and help prevent boredom.
Tug Toys – Ideal for bonding and training impulse control.
Plush Toys – Best for gentle play; avoid for heavy chewers.
Water Toys – Designed to float, making them great for swimming sessions.

Trainer Insights on Dog Toys

Laura Folsom, CPDT-KA, emphasizes safety when selecting toys: “Steer clear of toys with small or detachable parts that could become choking hazards. Always supervise playtime, especially with new toys.”

Sabrina Sosnick, CPDT-KA, adds: “I love flirt poles. They’re great for burning off energy indoors and outdoors but from a distance, so if your pup is a little extra mouthy, you won’t get nipped by accident. Plus, they satisfy prey drive instincts by engaging in the whole prey sequence of stalk, chase, pounce, and ‘kill’—and they help dogs learn impulse control! Extra bonus for herding breeds, of course.”

Vet Insights on Toy Safety

Dr. Kaitlyn Krebs, DVM, warns against giving dogs toys that are too hard: “Breaking teeth on dog toys is common. Avoid giving your dog antlers or bones—if you can’t press into the toy with your fingernail, it’s too hard for their teeth.”

Dr. Andrew Ciccolini, DVM, adds: “Size is a really important safety factor when looking for toys. If a toy is too small for the dog, it could easily be swallowed and create health hazards like obstruction.”

The Best Dog Toys for Every Play Style

Best Fetch Toy: Chuckit! Classic Launcher

If your pup loves to chase, the Chuckit! Classic Launcher is a must-have. It makes throwing balls effortless and adds extra distance for high-energy dogs.

Fetch toys like this are excellent for dogs that have a lot of pent-up energy. Retrievers, border collies, and other active breeds thrive on repetitive activities like fetch, which help them stay physically and mentally engaged. If your dog loves to fetch but you struggle with your throwing arm, the Chuckit! Classic Launcher will help you extend playtime while saving your shoulder from fatigue.

Best Tug Toy: Clean Run Fleecy Fluffy Fur Braided Tug

This fleece and fur tug toy from Clean Run is an excellent choice for interactive play. Tug-of-war helps strengthen your dog’s bite inhibition and impulse control.

Interactive play is one of the best ways to reinforce your bond with your dog. Tugging builds confidence and teaches dogs how to control their strength. However, it’s important to teach a reliable “drop it” cue when playing tug games to ensure they understand when to release the toy.

Best Puzzle Toy: Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound

Enrichment toys like the Nina Ottosson Dog Worker Puzzle encourage problem-solving and keep your dog engaged during mealtime.

Puzzle toys are essential for intelligent breeds like poodles, Australian shepherds, and German shepherds, who require mental stimulation to prevent destructive behaviors. If your dog tends to gobble down their meals too quickly, puzzle feeders can also help slow their eating while keeping them entertained.

Best Chew Toy: Kong Classic

Recommended by trainers and vets alike, the Kong Classic is perfect for stuffing with treats or peanut butter to keep your dog occupied.

Chew toys like the Kong help relieve stress and anxiety, particularly for dogs prone to separation anxiety. Freezing the Kong with peanut butter or wet food makes for an extra long-lasting challenge.

Best Plush Toy: Frisco Giraffe Bungee Plush Squeaky Toy

For dogs that love to cuddle, the Frisco Giraffe Bungee is a durable, soft toy that also satisfies light chewing urges.

Best Water Toy: West Paw Zogoflex Zisc

If your pup loves water, the West Paw Zogoflex Zisc is a great floating frisbee that’s easy to grip and gentle on teeth.

Best Interactive Toy: Omega Paw Tricky Treat Ball

This treat-dispensing ball helps mentally stimulate dogs while keeping them engaged.

Best Flirt Pole: Squishy Face Studio Flirt Pole V2

As recommended by Sabrina Sosnick, the Squishy Face Studio Flirt Pole V2 is excellent for dogs that need to release pent-up energy while honing their impulse control.

Keep Playtime Safe and Fun

No matter which toys you choose, always monitor wear and tear. If a toy starts breaking apart, it’s time to replace it. Rotating toys every few weeks also keeps playtime fresh and engaging.

For more expert tips on training and enrichment, book a consultation with one of our professional trainers. Happy playing!

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The Best Dog Toys Recommended by Trainers and Vets